Membership

Join NELC

NELC membership is open to experienced labor and employment lawyers and legal-adjacent HR leaders committed to advancing diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

To qualify for membership, a person shall pay annual dues, have a demonstrated commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession, and meet one of the following three criteria:

(1) Outside Counsel

  • Currently licensed to practice law; and
  • Engaged in the practice of Labor/Employment Law for a minimum of four years, or twice satisfactorily completed the NELC Academy Fellows program; and
  • Current practice area comprised of a minimum of 75% Labor/Employment Law (management representation only)

(2) In-House/Corporate Counsel

  • Currently licensed to practice law for four years or successfully completed the ICAP program; and
  • Supervises Labor/Employment attorneys within the entity (i.e., general counsel or assistant general counsel); or
  • Manages Labor/Employment Litigation handled by outside counsel; or
  • Current practice area comprised of Labor/Employment Law

(3) Neutrals, Human Resource and DEI Professionals

  • Currently employed as a human resources leader supervising other human resources professionals, or currently employed as a human resources professional and prior membership as a dues-paid NELC in-house or outside counsel member; or
  • Currently employed as an alternative dispute resolution neutral and prior membership as a dues-paid NELC in-house or outside counsel member; or
  • Currently employed as a diversity, equity, and inclusion representative with prior experience as a management-side labor/employment lawyer or as a senior human resources leader for an employer.

MEMBERSHIP LEVELS

Regular Membership

Offers attorneys with full access to NELC’s national network, cutting-edge programming, specialized trainings, regional and annual conferences, and opportunities to participate in committees and leadership roles. NELC membership is designed for legal practitioners who want to deepen their expertise, expand their professional relationships, and contribute meaningfully to a community dedicated to elevating the practice of labor and employment law.

> Membership Fee: $400 / 12 months

Sustaining Membership

An opportunity to provide enhanced financial support to strengthen NELC’s programming, network, and long-term impact. For those who have benefited from NELC’s community and resources, becoming a Sustaining Member helps ensure NELC can continue delivering high-quality programs and advancing opportunities for diverse labor and employment attorneys nationwide. Sustaining Members receive heightened recognition on our website and at the Annual Conference in appreciation of their commitment.

> Membership Fee: $1,000 / 12 months

Ready to Join or Renew?